Story on page 6. - Photo courtesy of Georgetown FD
4 Displaced by Louisville Fire
FFs bring the blaze under control in 18 minutes ... and also rescue the family pooch.
See story on page 9
Training Around Kentucky
FFs from Madisonville, Henderson, Bowling Green, Perryville, Covington, Zoneton and more.
See stories on pages 11-12 & 16-18
Kentucky FC New Cert Level
The Kentucky Fire Commission introdcues a new accredited certification level.
See story on page 20
Academy Class Graduation
Academy Class 23-04, surrounded by family and friends, graduates.
See story on page 22
Grain Bin Rescue
Members of Smith Mills FD, Corydon Civil Defense F&R, Henderson
City/County Rescue and Henderson City FD receive Lifesaving Awards,
See story on page 23
Obituary
Franklin’s
Tony Leon Barnett
See story on page 26
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Focus of the Month
page 22
page 24
page 26
3 Displaced by Louisville Fire
Recently, in the 2000 block of Griffiths Avenue, Louisville Fire Department crews were dispatched to the report of a residential structure fire. Fire companies arrived on scene in two minutes to find smoke and flames coming from the back of a house. Firefighters made entry to attack the fire with multiple hoselines.
- Photos courtesy of Louisville FD
Weldon Pointe Brush Fire Stopped
On March 17 2024, at approximately 1430, Corbin Fire responded to a brush fire nearWeldon Pointe. Weatherconditions were dry and windy making wild fire spread very possible. However, the fire was quickly extinguished by crews without incident.
- Photos courtesy of Corbin FD
Down Powerline Sparks Field Fire
Assistant Chief Rodgers, Mini Pumper1752 (FFWoods), Tanker (FFScott) and mutual aid from Fairview Fire Department recently responded to an outdoorfire. The fire was caused by a downed powerline, and crews were able to keep the fire to approximately 1/4 acre.
- Photo courtesy of Pembroke FD
Hazard Averts a Potentially
Dangerous Situation
Recently, Chief Robert Keith was alerted by Kentucky Emergency Management of multiple adolescents stuck along the riverin the Chavies Dunraven area of Perry County. The Hazard Fire Department dispatched the Technical Rescue team to assist in locating the juveniles. Ourteam launched a rescue boat and combed along the riveruntil locating and rescuing the juveniles. All personnel and victims returned safely to the launch area and the juveniles were assessed by EMS then released to their guardians.
- Photo courtesy of Hazard FD
33 Displaced by Georgetown Apartment Blaze
Recently, Georgetown Fire Department (GFD) responded to reports of an apartment on fire on Myers Drive. Responding units en route advised that heavy smoke was visible from across town. When units arrived, heavy fire was pushing through the roof of an eight-unit, multi-family apartment building. Fire crews immediately initiated an aggressive fire attack while conducting primary searches on all eight units. Luckily, all occupants were able to escape safely, with only a few treated forsmoke inhalation symptoms. Considering the amount of fire the crews were battling, firefighters did a courageous job extinguishing and saving as many per-
sonal belongings as possible. In total, 33 people, including 23 adults and 10 children, were displaced from theirhomes. The GFD is working with GSCEMAand volunteerorganizations to help secure basic needs forthese families. GFD would like to thank the Scott County Fire Department Lexington Fire Department Georgetown/Scott County EMS Georgetown Police Department GSCEMA, Code Enforcement, and the Red Cross forall of their assistance.
- Photos courtesy of Georgetown FD
ValorOil Fire:
On March 27, 2024, the Bowling Green Fire Department responded to a structure fire at ValorOil, an oil and gas distribution facility in close proximity to various otherbusinesses including a church and school. Upon arrival, crews were met with heavy smoke and fire. Ablack column of smoke was visible throughout all of Warren County. The BGFD HazMat team responded to this incident as well due to fuel runoff. All available units responded, including all 11 frontline apparatus, several chief officers, and the on-duty fire investigator. Crews were able to get the fire under control within 45 minutes but remained on scene forseveral hours. This was a team effort with the Bowling Green Police Department, Bowling Green Public Works Department, Warren County Emergency Management, Bowling Green Municipal Utilities, and others. The BGFD Strike Team was activated and off-duty BGFD and volunteerfirefighters responded to othercalls forservice within the City. The area was effectively evacuated and no injuries were reported. - Submitted by Elyse Jonker
Crescent Springs Fire Department
Frankfort Fire Department
Firefighters from the Owensboro Fire Department. - Photo courtesy of Owensboro FD
MOTLEY CREW OF THE MONTH
4 People, 1 Dog Displaced by Louisville Fire
Louisville fire crews responded to a residential structure fire in the 4100 block of West Broadway. Upon arrival within two minutes, crews found a three-story residential home with heavy fire and smoke on the second and third floors. Through a coordinated effort, the fire was brought undercontrol in 18 minutes by 32 firefighters. Fortunately, all occupants were able to self-evacuate, and no civil-
ians were injured. However, two firefighters sustained non-lifethreatening injuries but were not transported. The American Red Cross was assisting fouradults and 1 dog affected by displacement.
The LFD Arson team was investigating the cause of the fire.
- Photos courtesy of Louisville FD
The Georgetown Fire Department responded to a working structure fire at an industrial facility on Demand Court. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy black smoke, with little to no visibil-
Fire Out, Man Medevac’d
Recently, the Corbin Fire Department responded to the report of a residential structure fire on Higgins Street. Firefighters arrived to find the fire was extinguished priorto arrival. One male patient with severe burns was found and was transported by helicopterto a level 1 trauma centerin Lexington. Also responding are Corbin Police, Whitley County EMS and PHI.
- Photo courtesy of Corbin FD
Georgetown Handles Structure Fire
ity. Firefighters advanced a hoseline into the facility and made a great stop on the fire, while also protecting undamaged areas of the facility. All employees escaped unharmed, and no injuries were reported. Strong work 1st Shift, and to otheragencies involved including Scott County Fire Department Georgetown/Scott County EMS. - Photo courtesy of Georgetown FD
Waterand Foam for
Corbin CarFire
The Corbin Fire Department responded to a vehicle fire recently nearNorth Mitchell Avenue. Firefighters extinguished the fire with a waterand foam mixture. The structure next to the vehicle showed no signs of damage. No injuries were reported.
- Photo courtesy of Corbin FD
Corbin Handles
Fire on I-75
Corbin firefighters responded to a vehicle fire recently on north Interstate-75, nearthe 27 milemarker.
- Photo courtesy of Corbin FD
Madisonville Trains
Madisonville A-shift utilized the Mark Boaz Training Center recently to brush up on vertical ventilation skills. Crews typically use horizontal ventilation on scene making training on vertical ventilation all the more important if the emergency necessitates.
- Photo courtesy of Madisonville FD
Extrication Class forHenderson FFs
Each crew on all three of Henderson Fire Department shifts participated in an extrication class at ourtraining facility overthe last three days. The class covered various situations and a lot of tips and techniques to help ourpersonnel mitigate vehicle accidents involving entrapment more efficiently. In total, ourcrews “cut up” 16 vehicles during this training. They also trained on a new device being added to ourKodiak stabilization systems we have on some apparatuses. This new device has a hand crank that allows vehicles to be lifted up to 14 inches using our existing stabilization kits. The class instructors were from Howell Rescue Systems and P&LRescue Service.
- Photos courtesy of Henderson FD
Sixth Annual OfficerTraining School
In March, the Bowling Green Fire Department held its 6th annual OfficerTraining School (OTS). 20 upcoming leaders from 6 departments spent the week learning skills to help them develop on and off the fire ground, to be the best version of themselves fortheircrews,
department, community, and family at home. This class is made possible by the generosity of sponsors - Submitted by
Elyse Jonker
Louisville Rope Training Session
Over60 Louisville firefighters completed a rigorous rope training course recently. From mastering basic knots to advanced techniques like rappelling and patient pickoffs, this intensive training ensures ourteam is skilled and certified, enhancing safety and efficiency in ouroperations.
- Photos courtesy of Louisville FD
Training
Madisonville MasterStream
Madisonville firefighters spent a recent morning training on masterstream operations. Each crew took theirturn operating both the deck gun and portable ground monitor.
- Photo courtesy of Madisonville FD
Hose Handling Drills for Perryville
Firefighters from the Perryville Fire Department conducted a recent hose-handling drill.
- Photo courtesy of Perryville FD
Training in Northern Kentucky at the Purple People Bridge in Newport
About 20 firefighters from the Covington Fire/EMS Department joined colleagues in Cincinnati and members of the Northern Kentucky Technical Rescue Team and the Hamilton County Urban Search and Rescue Task Force for the annual review and practice, said Jimmy Adams, Covington’s Assistant Fire Chief in charge of training.
Over two-and-a-half days, the first responders practiced for an array of scenarios: a window washer stuck on a scaffolding, a jumper on the beams of a bridge’s infrastructure, a person who’s fallen in the gap between a floodwall and a building. All involved the precise and proper use of ropes, harnesses, knots, rigging, ladders, boom arms, tripods and more. “These are perishable skills (that need ongoing practice to be second nature - your mind and hands have to be on the same page,” Adams said. “We don’t train until we get it right, we train until we can’t get it wrong.”
And those skills DO get put to use. Afew years ago, Adams said Covington firefighters rescued a woman who’d climbed onto the pier of the Roebling Suspension Bridge with the intention of jumping and changed her mind.
“We have to always be prepared,” he said.
- Photos courtesy of City of Covington Kentucky Government
Zoneton WaterFights
Afun training with a good purpose recently at Zoneton: water fights, firefighterstyle. The object was fortwo opponents to use hose streams to push a ball along a cable, not unlike a tug of war. Guaranteed to get soaked, but that was fine on an 80-degree-plus evening. The critical skills were to advance a hoseline, direct it to a target accurately, even if you are being struck by anotherhose stream and mostly importantly always control the hose line. A dropped hose will whip around and can cause some nasty injuries. Afire hose line can flow around 100 gallons perminute (ormore) depending on the pressure. A100-foot length of waterfilled 1-3/4 inch line could weigh in the neighborhood of 180 pounds.
- Photos courtesy of Zoneton Fire Protection District
Kentucky Fire Commission Introduces New Accredited Certification Level
The Kentucky Fire Commission’s IFSAC Accredited Certification Program is now offering certification in Common PassengerVehicle Rescue Awareness, Operations and Technician levels. Fifty-two students recently participated in pilot classes of this series in Ashland. Topics covered in this course include planning fora passengervehicle rescue incident; performing ongoing incident size-up; establishing scene safety zones; establishing fire protection; stabilizing pas-
sengervehicles; isolating potentially harmful energy sources; determining access and egress points; creating access and egress opening; disentangling victims; removing packaged victims; terminating passengervehicle rescue incidents, and much more. If you oryour department is interested in participating in any of these classes, please contact yourlocal SFRTDistrict Office.
- Submitted by Ericka Cole
Opening of Fire Station 8
The Bowling Green Fire Department opened a new fire station, Station 8, in the Kentucky Transpark on April 17, 2024. This station is home to a new 4-person engine company, Engine 8. This area of Bowling Green was identified as a gap in performance with a 90th percentile travel time of over 8 minutes, while the benchmark standard set for the Department is 4 minutes city-wide. Previous leaders of the Department reviewed the data and saw the need for this Station years ago based on City annexation, growth, and call volume in the area. The land for Station 8 was donated to the City in 2019, ground breaking took place in April of 2023, and construction was completed in just 53 weeks. This project was partially funded with $1 million from the Commonwealth of Kentucky Community Development Block Grant, presented to BGFD by Governor Andy Beshear on August 30, 2022.
The BGFD is extremely grateful for the continuous support from the community and City leaders. There is no doubt that the addition of Station 8 will allow the Department to better Serve, Save, & Protect. Make it Better.
- Submitted by Elyse Jonker
Academy Class Graduation
And just like that, 28 weeks of hard work, determination, and sacrifice have come to an end. On February 1, 2024, Academy Class 2304 proudly graduated, surrounded by the unwavering love and support of theirfriends, family and mentors. We extend ourheartfelt congratulations to every graduate. As you embark on this noble
journey as firefighters, always rememberthe immense privilege it is to serve and protect. Stay safe, stay strong, and continue to make a difference in the lives of others.
- Photos courtesy of Kyle Shepherd
Awards forSuccessful Grain Bin Rescue
Members of the Smith Mills Fire Department, Corydon Civil Defense Fire and Rescue, Henderson City/County Rescue Squad and Henderson City Fire Department recently received Lifesaving Awards, forperforming a successful grain bin rescue on March 20, 2024, in the Smith Mills response area. The individual trapped, was rescued in under two hours, and transported to a local hospital for observation.
Strengthening the WaterRescue Team
The Hazard Fire Department would like to recognize and congratulate two firefighters forbecoming Moving Water/Flood WaterRescue Technicians, Provided by Floyd County Rescue Squad. They are Shift 1 FirefighterJohn Deaton and volunteer FirefighterSkylarWyrick. Also attending class forthe second time was part time FirefighterRayven Ritchie.
- Photo courtesy of Hazard FD
- Fire News photo by Bryan Coghill
Cardiac Save in Georgetown
In early May 2024, Georgetown Fire Department Engine 1 first shift, along with Battalion Chief Chad Smith and Georgetown/Scott County EMS, were dispatched fora male patient in cardiac arrest. Upon arrival, both Engine 1 and GSCEMS found the family of the patient performing CPR. Crews quickly jumped in and began patient care including resuscitation efforts. While continuing ALS, the patient was loaded into the ambulance fortransport to the hospital. Ultimately, the patient regained a heartbeat. Afterseveral weeks in the hospital, the patient was released and cleared to go back to his home in Ohio. However, before heading back, he and his family stopped by Georgetown Fire Department and EMS Station 1 to thank the men and women fortheirlife-saving efforts: Nicholas Perkins, Cory Ford and Chase Philpot. Special thanks to the Georgetown Police Department fortheirassistance.
- Photo courtesy of Georgetown FD
The Heart of the Community: Where Every House is Protected by the Firehouse
On May 5, 2024, people gathered to honor the brave firefighters from across the nation who have made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their communities. The annual National Fallen Firefighters Memorial Service is a solemn reminder of the courage and dedication of those who put themselves in harm’s way to protect us.
In a fitting tribute, Governor Andy Beshear directed that flags at all state buildings be lowered to half-staff, aligning with a proclamation from the White House. This act of remembrance underlines the profound respect and gratitude we hold for our firefighters.
President Joe Biden aptly stated, “Firefighters have always had our back.” This resonates deeply with us here in Powell County and throughout Kentucky.
It’s not about the paycheck. Rather it is in the heartfelt thanks of a community, in the hugs from those we have helped, and in the eyes of those who see us not just as responders, but as pillars of strength and safety. To be a firefighter in Powell County and across Kentucky is to be part of a proud tradition of service and sacrifice.
To all my brothers and sisters in the firefighting community, know that your bravery and dedication do not go unnoticed. You are truly heroes, and your legacy will forever be etched in the hearts of those you have served and saved.
“I am a firefighter.” These words speak of honor, courage and commitment. Let us continue to carry this proud declaration as a badge of honor.
- Submitted by Lisa Johnson
Luck and Lifesaving Interventions
On February 20, 2024, a day etched in Ron Sprugoen’s memory forever, we are incredibly grateful for the way events unfolded. While driving, Ron suddenly felt unwell and knew something was amiss. Struggling to exit his vehicle, he found himself on the ground until Sacred Heart Academy Senior Bella DeCamillia arrived and promptly called 911. Coincidentally, one of our ambulances passing by, noticed the situation and stopped. Paramedic Corey Christensen, Firefighter/EMTGabe Salcedo, and a student rider recognized Ron’s symptoms of a massive stroke and sprang into action. They provided swift medical care, transporting him to Norton
Hospital and alerting the stroke team. Ron underwent emergency surgery to remove the clot blocking blood flow, a procedure that proved lifesaving. Today, the crew, along with Ron’s dedicated team of doctors, nurses and therapists, gathered for a heartwarming lunch at Station 35. Ron expresses deep gratitude for the positive outcome, acknowledging the vital role of quick prehospital care in saving his life. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ron and his family for visiting us today, and a special appreciation to Norton for their exceptional care and support throughout his journey.
- Submitted by Jordan Youdis
Franklin’s Tony Barnett
Tony Leon Barnett passed away March 6, 2024, after a short battle with cancer. He was 58.
He was a former member of the Franklin Fire Department where he served as Lieutenant. His calling, however, was serving as a Paramedic with Franklin-Simpson County Ambulance Service. Tony served 36 years as Assistant Director and Interim Director.
His greatest love and proudest call to service was to our Lord Jesus Christ. Tony was a pillar to the community and served no matter the church he attended. Most recently he led men’s ministry, served as leader for the youth on Wednesday night and led the “Coffee Corner” at LifePoint Church of Franklin.
Tony leaves behind his wife, Beate; daughters Dominque, Temara, Rebecca; and son Richard. Tony will be dearly missed by his family, friends, and church.
- Submitted by Leslie Goodrum
ESO SOLUTIONS AND IAMRESPONDINGTEAM UPTO ENHANCE DATA-BASED SITUATIONALAWARENESS AND INCIDENT REPORTINGCAPABILITIES FOR FIRSTRESPONDERS
TWO PROVEN LEADERS IN EMERGENCYRESPONSE LEVERAGE DECADES OFINDUSTRY EXPERIENCE TO DELIVER THE BEST-IN-CLASS, CUTTING-EDGE TECHNOLOGY
IamResponding announced a strategic partnership with ESO, a leading data and software company serving fire departments, emergency medical services (EMS), hospitals and state and federal agencies. IamResponding, a RapidSOS solution, and ESO combine the strengths of the premier incident alerting and situational awareness communication platform with the industry-leading records management system.
This partnership focuses on making a real impact where it counts the most, reshaping the dynamics of emergency response. The two companies’collaboration marks a pivotal moment in emergency services, introducing enhanced incident data capabilities that empower first responders to make better-informed decisions swiftly and efficiently. Customers can expect exciting enhancements to IamResponding and ESO’s offerings:
• Real-Time Insights forRapid Response:
With rich incident data from IamResponding including actual 911 caller location, health profiles, vehicle telematics, alarm information and more from over 500M connected devices and ESO’s extensive repository of critical information - including property details, occupancy status, pre-plans, hydrant locations and inspection recordsresponders get a clear view of the situation fast. This means quicker, more informed decisions that can save time and lives. The comprehensive dataset enables a more informed emergency response and assists mutual aid agencies, improving coordination and effectiveness across jurisdictions.
• Streamlined Incident Management and Permitting Processes: By leveraging the IamResponding community portal and ESO Properties, Inspections and Permits modules, first responders can streamline operations and easily stay compliant. This integration empowers users to easily tap into a vast network of resources and expertise for smoother workflows.
• Closed Feedback Loop forContinuous Improvement: The collaboration goes beyond initial response efforts, as incident response data from IamResponding will be seamlessly delivered back into the ESO platform. This closed-loop system ensures that every incident contributes to refining future responses, enhancing overall
efficiency and effectiveness.
• Comprehensive Solutions forEmpowered Response: Together, ESO and IamResponding offer a robust toolkit for emergency response and department operations. From mobile dispatch alerts and real-time tracking to logistics management and fire-incident reporting, responders can access industry-leading tools that streamline operations and elevate performance.
When paired, the two technologies offer unparalleled reporting and data insights, comprehensive fire records management, seamless compliance for national and state-level requirements, real-time caller locations and apparatus tracking, interactive mapping and more for first responders. “We are excited about the opportunities this partnership presents to our customers and the first responder community at large,” said Eric Beck, President and CEO of ESO. “IamResponding is an innovative solution for our customers looking for real-time critical incident information, and further enhances their ability to improve community health and safety through the power of data.”
“This partnership with ESO marks an exciting milestone in our journey, but it’s just the beginning,” said Daniel Seidberg, President of IamResponding. “Together, we’re committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation in emergency response technology, ensuring that first responders have the tools and enhanced emergency data they need for situational awareness in an ever-evolving emergency response landscape.”
The collaboration taps into combined decades of industry experience and cutting-edge technology. Today, IamResponding and ESO will focus on their core strengths while leveraging each other’s expertise to enhance technology features and make data even more actionable for improved patient outcomes. Both companies are committed to ensuring seamless integration and delivering unmatched value to their shared customer base.
